Othman El Ballouti, who was sanctioned by the U.S. last year, was held over an international arrest warrant issued by Belgian authorities.

An alleged drug trafficker wanted for his role in an international cocaine smuggling operation through the port of Antwerp, in Belgium, had been arrested in Dubai.

Othman El Ballouti has been arrested by Dubai Police, accused of involvement in international organised crime and drug trafficking. The Belgian national’s name was listed under an Interpol red notice and Europol’s database.